Todorov's Theory

Todorov’s Theory

Todorov’s in 1969 created a narrative theory, which he stated that the majority of all films follow the same narrative pathway. He believed there was 5 stages that a narrative structure can be developed throughout and story or film.

State of Equilibrium- This is where the setting and the base of plot is expressed to the audience, and everything is as it should be, with no disruption to the plot.

A disruption of this equilibrium by an event- This is where the plot and setting of the storyline is changed dramatically by a sudden, unsuspected event.

A recognition that the disorder has occurred – this is where something particular affects the lead character in the film.  In music video this will be signified clearly to the audience by the way the artist’s response to the form of disruption, whether it be a positive or negative event by the use of facial expression, music and lighting.
An attempt to repair the damage of the disruption – This is the moment that the lead character feels the need to repair the damaged made within the storyline. During a music video the artist has recognised the disruption and will confront it Eg.  In Taylor Swift’s music video” We’re never getting back together” she dumbs her boyfriend for cheating on her. Therefore this is the outcome of the disruption although it is negative.
A restoration of the equilibrium – In the film the lead character manages to defeat the event that occurred, however for a music video that means the storyline will return to a normal state.

An example of the narrative theory used within a music video.

She’s The One – Robbie Williams

1.      Equilibrium – Shots of the ice skaters with their coach winning medals and smiling. The skaters in training.

2.      Disruption – The male skater falls over while they are practicing and injures his ankle so cannot skate.

3.      Realisation – The coach has memories of his first pair of skates and when he used to skate. He realises he may have to perform again.

4.      Attempt to repair the damage – The coach enters the competition and performs the routine with the female skater.

5.      Restoration of the equilibrium – The ice skaters get a high score from the judges